A bitter blow.
Paraguay faced the United States in their opening Group Stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and unfortunately found themselves on the wrong side of an unwanted piece of history. The United States took the lead early in the match due to an own goal by Paraguay defender Damián Bobadilla, who inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, granting the hosts an early advantage. This own goal marked the first of the tournament.
According to sports analyst MisterChip (Alexis), Bobadilla also became only the second Paraguayan player to score an own goal in World Cup history, adding to the unfortunate milestone for his team.
Among the spectators at the match was Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, who was present to cheer on his favorite national team during their tournament opener.